Mixed reactions have resulted from the release of the Starbucks 2009 Planner last week. Online, there were loads of comments, from “not attractive” to “cost-cutting,” to “simple,” “nondescript” and “light” and what-have-you.

The first load of photos found online were pretty much just about the cover and one of its pages. I found another set of photos of the Starbucks 2009 Planner from pinoyfood.nimrodel.net, which showcased more features inside. I had to go personally to a Starbucks branch to take a closer look at it, or rather “them” because it comes in three colors: black, red and blue.

From what I’ve seen (and felt), from the outside, it is quite a different design than its predecessors. The hard-bound cover (especially the black one) reminds me of a pivotal item of a certain teleserye from way back when (I bet you know what it is), but nevertheless lessens the chances of wrinkled pages as you go on through the year. I found the bookmark touch really cute, though. And the weight seems to be one of its plus points — it’s pretty light. Inside, the pages have a pretty simple design, but the graphics of each month are, in my opinion, dainty.

What’s more, you only have to collect 16 stickers, 8 of the special ones and 8 of the regular coffee variants. At least you would have to have less palpitations just for a planner.

This blogger thinks that, though it’s much more simpler than the previous years, it’s worth getting. Especially if you’re collecting the Starbucks planners. But alas, ridding caffeine in my diet because of my pregnancy means less — even no — chances of getting one. Unless of course hubby, who’s not much of a coffee drinker, becomes a caffeine addict.

What do you think, will you get your own Starbucks 2009 Planner or skip this year?